Homemade Ginger Water
Ginger water is a refreshing, simple drink made by gently simmering fresh ginger in water. It has a naturally spicy, warming flavor and can be enjoyed hot or chilled with lemon.
Ingredients
- 2-inch (5 cm) piece fresh ginger
- 4 cups (950 ml) water
- 1–2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, optional
- 1 teaspoon honey, optional
- Fresh mint, optional
- Ice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the ginger.
Rinse the ginger well. You can peel it, although peeling isn’t necessary if it’s clean. Slice it thinly or grate it for a stronger flavor. - Simmer.
Add the ginger and water to a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil. - Reduce the heat.
Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes.For a milder drink, simmer for about 5–8 minutes. For a stronger, spicier ginger water, simmer for up to 20 minutes.
- Strain.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the ginger pieces from the liquid. - Add flavor.
Stir in lemon juice and honey while the water is warm, if desired. - Serve.
Enjoy warm as a soothing drink, or let it cool completely and pour over ice for a refreshing beverage.
Cold Ginger Water
For a refreshing version, let the strained ginger water cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for 1–2 hours.
Serve over ice with lemon slices, cucumber, or fresh mint.
Easy Variations
Lemon Ginger Water:
Add plenty of fresh lemon juice and lemon slices.
Ginger Mint Water:
Add a handful of fresh mint leaves after simmering and let them steep for 5 minutes.
Ginger Cucumber Water:
Add thin cucumber slices to chilled ginger water for a crisp, refreshing flavor.
Ginger Orange Water:
Add a few strips of orange peel while simmering and finish with fresh orange juice.
Storage
Store homemade ginger water in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Give it a quick stir before serving.
Note
Ginger water can be a flavorful alternative to sugary drinks, but it isn’t a proven detox or weight-loss drink. If you use ginger regularly in large amounts or take medications that may interact with ginger, it’s worth checking with a healthcare professional.
